Russell records triple-double as Acadia cruises past Cape Breton
Acadia defeated Cape Breton 83–43 on Friday night at Stu Aberdeen Court, powered by a triple-double from Samantha Russell and a dominant defensive effort that forced 28 turnovers. The Axewomen led by as many as 48 points in the fourth quarter and outscored the Capers 50–16 in the paint.
Russell delivered one of the strongest all-around performances of the season, finishing with 17 points, 12 rebounds and 11 assists, along with six steals and two blocks. Bianca Helmig added 19 points, six assists and two steals. Maria Davignon contributed six points, four rebounds and four assists, while Sarah Delorey scored nine points and added two steals and a block.
Cape Breton was led by Amanda Cruickshank, who scored 14 points on 4-for-15 shooting and went 5-for-6 from the line. Kristen Taylor finished with five points, six rebounds and three assists. Cameron Clarke grabbed seven boards, and Alicia Bowering added five points, a block and a steal.
Acadia controlled the opening quarter with 16 points in the paint and six forced turnovers. The Axewomen shot 59 per cent from the floor and held the Capers to 20 per cent, building a 24–10 lead.
The second quarter was Acadia's most decisive stretch. The Axewomen outscored Cape Breton 28–8, converting 10 turnovers into 16 points and shooting 63 per cent while holding the Capers to 20 per cent. A 9–2 edge on the boards helped push the lead to 52–18 at halftime.
Acadia continued its strong play in the third quarter, scoring 16 more points in the paint and shooting 60 per cent. The Axewomen totaled nine assists in the frame and held Cape Breton to two made field goals, extending the lead to 73–33.
The Axewomen forced eight additional turnovers in the fourth quarter. Russell opened the period with two steals and a layup, highlighting a defensive surge that included three blocks and eight steals in the frame. Both teams scored 10 points in the quarter, and Acadia closed out the 40-point win.
Up next: Acadia is on the road Saturday, Nov. 22 to face Saint Mary's.
